A rule-based image segmentation method and neural network model for classifying fruit in natural environment / Hamirul‘Aini Hambali

Image segmentation and object classification processes are gaining importance in image processing applications such as in agricultural area. In general, image segmentation divides a digital image into multiple areas while object classification classifies objects into the correct categories. However, segmentation and classification processes arechallenging for images captured in natural environment due to the existence of nonuniform illumination.Different illuminations produce different intensity on the object surface and thus lead to inaccurate segmented images. The low quality of segmented images may lead to inaccurate classification. Therefore, this thesis focuses on the improvement of segmentation methods and development of classification model for images captured in natural environment. Based on the previous researches, most existing segmentation methods are unable to accurately segment images under natural illumination. Therefore, this research has developed three improved methods which are able to segment images acquired in natural environment satisfactorily.The first method is an improved thresholding-based segmentation (TsN), which adds algorithms of inverse process and adjustment on threshold value. However, there is some inconsistency in the segmentation of lighter colourimages such as green, yellow, and yellowish-brown. Therefore, another segmentation method has been developed to address the problem. The new method, named as Adaptive K-means, is developed based on clustering approach